120 Japanese kindergarten children were observed in order to examine cultural attitudes and behavior fostered by, and exhibited in, Japanese schools. Cross-cultural comparisons are made with American children and their environment. Notable features for coma parison are relative spontaneity in play, fostering of male dominance, differences by sex in expression of anger and aggression, emphasis on the group and lack of competition, obedience to authority, and some characteristic play activity. Societal influences are discussed.